‘Empire’ renewed, but Jussie Smollett unlikely to return

Fox has renewed “Empire” for a sixth season, but the drama series will probably go on without Jussie Smollett.

“By mutual agreement, the studio has negotiated an extension to Jussie Smollett’s option for season six, but at this time there are no plans for the character of Jamal to return to ‘Empire,’” Fox Entertainment and 20th Century Fox Television said in a statement.

Earlier this year, Smollett reported that was assaulted in Chicago, where “Empire” is shot, and said he was a victim of a racially motivated and homophobic attack. Later he was accused of hiring the men who attacked him and indicted for filing false statements.

The criminal charges were dropped in March, and Smollett has maintained his innocence. But the city of Chicago filed a lawsuit against the actor in order to recoup the cost of the police investigation.

Fox announced in February that Smollett, who plays musician Jamal Lyon, would not appear on the final two episodes of Season 5 “to avoid further disruption on set.” The season finale is scheduled to air May 8. In an April 19 letter, “Empire” cast members lobbied Fox for Smollett’s return to the show.

In announcing the Season 6 renewal, Fox Entertainment chief Michael Thorn said, “‘Empire’ continues to break barriers with its emotionally powerful storytelling, and it remains a core part of the Fox legacy.”

“Empire” now joins medical drama “The Resident,” first responder drama “9-1-1,” family comedy “Last Man Standing,” and animated comedies “Bob’s Burgers,” “Family Guy” and “The Simpsons” on Fox’s 2019-20 schedule.